NBA superstar Nikola Jokic helped the Denver Nuggets win their first-ever championship last season. After lifting the trophy, Jokic revealed he could not wait to get back to his country and relax after a tiring season. Notably, he also decided not to play in the 2023 FIBA World Cup for Serbia. This came as a huge blow to the country’s aspirations. Despite this, Serbia booked a ticket to the Finals after shocking Canada in the Semi-Finals.

After winning five of six games each, both Canada and Serbia reached the Semi-Finals of the World Cup. Given the number of NBA stars on Canada’s roster, they were seen as favorites by many. However, the Serbians had other plans.

Serbian stars step up in the absence of Nikola Jokic

Nikola Jokic is arguably the best center in the world despite missing out on his third straight MVP title to fellow center Joel Embiid. The 2x MVP could do it all on the hardwood. So understandably, fans and even players were distraught when he opted to not play in the World Cup. Notably, the Serbian captain Bogdan Bogdanovic tried to convince Jokic to play but failed.

However, all was not lost for the Serbians. Players like Bogdanovic, Nikola Jovic, Stefan Jovic, Nikola Milutinov, and co showed up every game. And that was the case against Canada as well. The Serbians came out prepared and started the game strong. They took a healthy 8-point lead in the first quarter.

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They continued their good work in the next period as well and were leading at half-time. Canada tried to mount a comeback in the third and final quarter. However, Serbia stood firm and saw the game out winning 95-86.

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For Canada, young star RJ Barret erupted for 23 points while Dillon Brooks and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had 16 and 15 points respectively. Gilgeous-Alexander’s early foul trouble reduced his minutes in the earlier periods which helped the Serbs build some momentum.

Serbia flows tears of elation

Bogdan Bogdanovic currently leading with 18.8 points per game once again scored big, 23 points. He was followed by Milutinov who had a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds and Ognjen Dobric with 16 points. Nikola Jovic had 8 points as well as per stats from FIBA.

Serbia dominated the rebounding battle by 33 t0 22. They also dominated the paint scoring 46 points from inside. Despite their size, the Serbians also scored more from turnovers and fast breaks. Furthermore, they also had better support from the bench as well.

It was an all-around great display by Serbia. As the final whistle was blown, Serbian players jumped up in joy. And fans in the arena couldn’t contain their emotions. Serbia are now all set to play in their first World Cup Final after losing it in 2014.

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With Team USA set to play against Germany in the other Semi-Final, many thought the tournament would see the first-ever All-Americas Final. But Serbia was not ready to let this opportunity to show the world about its basketball heritage slip.